An unprecedented career comes to a "LoChir"close: MV football star set to graduate, play for Bryant University in the fall

By Abigail Sullivan

Senior James LoChirco poses with his parents at a football game this fall.

Photo taken by: Courtney Ryan

I had the chance to catch up with Mystic Valley football phenom James LoChirco recently. The senior completed his final season as a do-it-all player for the Eagles in November, capping what has been an unprecedented career in the history of MV athletics. James graduates this spring, and he plans to attend and play football for Division I Bryant University in the fall of 2018. Here is what he had to say about his college search experience and what the future holds:

Tell me about your plans for next year.

“I will be attending Bryant University in Smithfield, Rhode Island. It is a part of the North Eastern Conference (NEC). It has a division 1 NCAA football program. It’s even sponsored by Adidas!”

I know you're planning to play football there. In terms of your football talents, did you notice the school, or vice versa? How did that take place?

“Every summer, to get noticed, I always attended multiple prospect camps for various schools in late June. I came across Bryant when I was looking for schools within 3 hours of my house because I knew I didn't want to go too far for college. I loved the campus and athletic facilities when I attended the camp."

"At the camp, I even attended an academic meeting that informed of the amazing program they offer. I attended the camp after freshman, sophomore, and junior year and loved it more and more every time. I also showed my interest by reaching out to the coaching staff.”

LoChirco will join the Bryant University Bulldogs this fall.

Photo courtesy of Bryant University

When did this whole process begin for you?

“The process began the summer after 8th grade when I decided I wanted to play football in college. It really picked up junior year when I was eligible (NCAA rules) to go to spring games and go on official visits.”

What makes Bryant stand out to you?

“I toured Bryant multiple times and I found myself more in love every time! My girlfriend’s brother went there so he gave me a personal tour of the senior housing. I also took tours from the coaching staff and multiple players"

"Bryant has put a lot of work into their athletic facilities over the past couple years. They recently built a full indoor football facility and a brand new athletic training room. They also have more projects in the future including redoing their football field. They offer one of the best accounting courses in the nation. Their average percent for players having a job or players going back to school for their masters after 6 months of graduating is 100%.”

What do you plan on studying?

“I plan on studying accounting!”

Any other thoughts?

“I want to thank my parents for always pushing me to be better, my coach for all the work he put in to get me to a university I would be happy in, and all of my teammates for picking me up when I was down.”